Police Chief Rick Hanson was also on hand to launch the special initiative, and he told Metro that Internet crime is a major growing problem in the city, not just for kids but for people in general.

“I think cyber crimes are a huge problem in the community. Criminals have adapted to use the Internet,” he said, adding pedophiles, fraudsters and thieves frequently prey on users.

“I think everyone, especially younger people and their parents, need to be aware of who they’re talking to … The reality is you have to be careful,” he added.

Which is why programs like this are so important, mother Cynthia McKitrick said.

“I have kids between six and 13 years old and there are different things to watch for with the ages. I think it’s very important to work together,” she said, adding the parents can learn as much as the kids.